Blepharoplasty, commonly referred to as eyelid surgery, is a procedure used to address excess skin, fat, and tissue laxity around the upper and/or lower eyelids. These changes often develop gradually with ageing and may affect the appearance of the eyes or, in some cases, interfere with peripheral vision.
Dr Mark Doyle is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon providing blepharoplasty procedures for patients from the Gold Coast and Brisbane regions. All consultations focus on individual anatomy, concerns, and suitability, with treatment planning tailored to clinical findings rather than aesthetic trends.
Blepharoplasty Surgery, at a glance
Target area: Loose upper/lower eyelid skin and/or fat pads on the upper/lower eyelids
Time off work: 1 – 2 weeks
Total recovery: 6 weeks
Scar position: Upper eyelid crease and/or lower lash line
What is Blepharoplasty Surgery?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to correct age-related or structural changes affecting the eyelids. Over time, skin elasticity can reduce and underlying fat pads may shift, leading to hooded upper eyelids or fullness beneath the eyes. Upper eyelid surgery may assist in cases where excess skin overhangs the lash line, while lower eyelid surgery can address laxity or bulging beneath the eyes. In some patients, these changes may have functional implications, such as reduced visual field, in addition to cosmetic concerns.
Types of Blepharoplasty Operation
Upper Blepharoplasty
Also known as hooded eyelid surgery, this procedure involves removal of excess skin and, where appropriate, fat from the upper eyelids.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty addresses tissue laxity or fat prominence beneath the eyes, using incisions placed close to the lash line or inside the eyelid.
Combined (Full) Blepharoplasty
A combined approach treats both upper and lower eyelids in a single procedure, depending on clinical assessment.
Suitability and Blepharoplasty Cost
Suitability for a blepharoplasty operation depends on factors such as overall health, stable weight, and non-smoking status. During consultations for blepharoplasty on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane, individual medical history and expectations are reviewed in detail. Costs vary depending on whether upper, lower, or combined blepharoplasty is performed, as well as hospital and anaesthetic fees.
Procedure, Incisions, and Scarring
Blepharoplasty is typically performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital. Scarring is an inevitable and permanent outcome of surgery. Incisions are usually placed within the natural upper eyelid crease or just beneath the lower lash line to reduce their visibility once healed.
Recovery and Longevity
Most patients allow 1–2 weeks away from work, with swelling and bruising gradually settling during this period. Strenuous activity is generally avoided for around six weeks. The effects of blepharoplasty are often long-lasting; however, the procedure does not stop the natural ageing process, and changes to the eyelids may continue over time.
Potential Risks and Complications
All surgery carries risks. Potential complications of blepharoplasty include infection, haematoma, scarring, asymmetry, dry eyes, ectropion (lower eyelid pull-down), and temporary changes in vision or sensation. Risk reduction relies on pre-operative planning, adherence to instructions, and providing full medical disclosure.
View All Blepharoplasty Before and After Images
Download our Detailed Procedure Guide
Learn more about blepharoplasty surgery in our detailed procedure guide:
Recovery and Aftercare
Your Next Steps: Scheduling a Consultation
If you’re considering eyelid surgery, the first step is to speak with your general practitioner to obtain a valid referral. This referral is required before a consultation can be scheduled. The consultation process involves at least two separate appointments, allowing time for assessment, discussion, and consideration of all available options.
If you decide to proceed, a mandatory minimum seven-day cooling-off period applies after consent is provided. During this time, no surgery dates can be booked and no deposit can be taken. This process is designed to ensure you have adequate time to reflect, ask questions, and make an informed decision.
To arrange an initial consultation, please contact the clinic once your GP referral is in place.tation with your surgeon. Book a consult for details regarding your cosmetic surgery procedure
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plas) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
